The Brewster

The #1 overall pick from this year's draft, Dennis French, has gotten off to a blazing start for the Tijuana Cutthroats, Boise's Rookie League affiliate. The young center fielder has been the crown jewel of the farm system since joining the Spud's organization. With a stat line of .376/.429/.662, French's bat has shown the promise the Spuds were hoping for thus far in his fledgling career. The high average and power were expected, the sharp eye at the plate has been a wonderful surprise. In a 157 at bats, French has walked 14 times while only striking out 11. That ratio isn't likely to last as he progresses through the organization, but it's an encouraging sign that he's willing to work with his coaches to develop more discipline at the plate.

"He'll get his chance at the next level," says GM Sganga. "We're moving him up to Hot Springs to see what he can do over the last six weeks of the season. We're confident he'll be able to keep it going against the pitchers in Short Season A ball." When asked about the possibility of a late season call-up to the Big League club, the GM responded "No, we're not going to rush him through the organization too quickly. He'll have time to develop during the off-season, maybe some winter ball. If things go well, he might get an invite to the spring training camp. But no, we're not going to see him in a Spud uniform this year."

It's good to be cautious, but I'm wondering if French could play in A-ball right now.

Probably better not to rush at this point.

Screw A ball. He could play AAA. I mean, I wouldn't push him like that. But I would definitely not wait 200-300 at bats before promotions. If he's raking in 80-120 PA's move him up.

Ya I was thinking AA but same idea.

I'd probably leave him in SA for now, but he's a candidate to skip A ball next year, depending. No value in pushing it right now.

Also probably no great issue either way.

Given that French is growing in leaps and bounds now, I'm leaning Ted's way. If he was actually needed, he could probably fake it in the bigs...at least as a strong side platoon--but that's probably going too far right now.

Agreed